You’re exploring the option of using a temporary structure, whether for extra warehouse capacity, more room for logistics operations, or additional production space. No matter the purpose for which you need a temporary structure, building or warehouse, considering an early application for planning permission is a good move.
Though planning can seem a daunting and complex topic, this need not deter you from the benefits of utilising a temporary structure. At Roder, we’ll work with you to smooth out the planning process, helping to simplify your application and, just as importantly, limiting any delays the planning process can impose.
All Roder industrial tents are classified as a temporary structure/building so planning permission is likely to be a consideration, depending on where you sit regarding the criteria we outline next.
Is planning permission needed for a temporary structure?
Cutting to the chase, in general, yes. For most applications, we find planning permission a requirement when using a temporary structure, which is why we work closely with our planners to guide you through the experience.
You do NOT usually have to apply for planning permission if:
- the structure uses less than 100 square metres of floor space & is under 5 metres tall
- The structure is in place for less than 28-days
You can view the official Government documentation relating to this here.
You DO have to apply for planning permission if:
- the temporary structure will be used for longer than 28-days
- the temporary structure is closer than 5 metres from your boundaries
- space allocated for vehicles parking or manoeuvring is reduced
- the external appearance of the overall building is impacted
- the temporary structure uses more than 25% of your existing building or site
- the temporary structure covers more than 100 square metres of floor space
The vast majority will likely have fallen into the DO section. So, from here we will break down the next steps for getting planning permission for your temporary structure.
How do you apply for planning permission?
All planning permission requests go through your Local Planning Authority (LPA); whilst the central Government set overarching principles, ultimately the decision rests with your local council.
To apply for planning permission for a temporary structure, you submit an online application form through a platform called Planning Portal to the Local Planning Authority. We can support this application with our planners through the completion of a full planning statement and architectural drawings, ensuring all relevant information is submitted and allowing the council to make an informed decision. You can find your Local Planning Authority with ease using this government finder tool.
How long does it take to get planning permission approved?
On average, planning applications will take between 8-12 weeks to get approval from your Local Planning Authority. It’s therefore worth getting this part of the process started as early as you can, especially if you’re working to a tight deadline. The earlier the application gets submitted, the less risk there is of the planning permission halting the progress of your temporary structure being installed.
Although 8-12 weeks is an appreciably long time frame, our planners have a strong track record in ensuring most applications submitted are successful.
Can I get planning permission after the structure is installed?
Retrospective planning permission can always be sought. However, we caution against this approach for most. The only occasion when retrospective planning permission is appropriate is when the need for a temporary structure is especially urgent. In the event of fire, flood, or any damage that renders your existing premises unusable and creates the need for urgent temporary space, then waiting 8-12 weeks simply won’t work.
In such situations, retrospective planning permission is a viable course of action, but this must be because the need for urgency was absolute. If you simply want to get the temporary structure installed quicker but don’t have a legitimate reason for retrospective planning, your local council is completely within its rights to demand the removal of the structure and the property returned to its original state in the event of planning permission being denied. This can also be followed up with enforcement fines for non-compliance, an altogether costly and stressful experience that can be avoided entirely through a prompt initial planning application.
What factors can influence planning permission?
This is a short list of considerations at a generalised level. Whilst our planners can advise you on the specifics of your own case, these are general factors that influence many decisions:
- Neighbours – speak to any neighbouring businesses to inform them of your plans
- Roads & Highways – If the temporary structure will in any way influence – or limit – access
- Nature & Wildlife – If you are in close proximity to any key wildlife that would be affected
- Designated Areas – are you, for example, in:
- a conservation area
- a national park
- an area of outstanding natural beauty
- a world heritage site
- the Norfolk or Suffolk broads
The planning portal website here utilises a more detailed overview of influencing factors for more depth and is also a useful resource in general.
Next steps for planning permission
As we touched upon at the beginning, planning permission for temporary structures is not a particularly straightforward process, but at Roder we have decades of experience obtaining planning approval and installing temporary structures on time.
Get in touch with us here or call us on 01487 840 840 today to discuss the project you have in mind and we can integrate the planning application as part of the process.
